As the Olympic excitement fades, hockey fans are shifting focus back to the NHL, and for New York Rangers supporters, it's a bittersweet moment. Artemi Panarin is heading to the Los Angeles Kings, a move finalized just before the Olympic trade freeze. Panarin, a standout player for the Rangers, expressed heartfelt gratitude in a farewell message.
Reflecting on his time in New York, Panarin shared, “I wanted to express my genuine gratitude for the 7 years I've been playing as a New York Ranger! Thank you for your support, for the many great moments we had together.
You will always have a special place in my heart!” His connection to the city and team runs deep, and his decision to join the Rangers as a free agent is one he cherishes. “7 years ago, I chose New York with my heart, and I didn't [choose] wrong!
** Heartfelt thank you full of gratitude
— Kevin Weekes (@KevinWeekes) February 24, 2026
and appreciation for the @NYRangers
and their great fans from Panarin ** pic.twitter.com/T3ofLPgAHB
New York, you will always be in my heart! I hope you will forever remember my blocked shots.
I'm a little nervous to think about coming back in March, but I'm looking forward and can't wait to see you all.”
Currently, the Rangers find themselves at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings post-Olympics. However, with JT Miller, Vincent Trochek, and head coach Mike Sullivan bringing home gold, there's a glimmer of hope for a playoff push. Overcoming a 19-point deficit with 25 games left would require a monumental effort.
In terms of injuries, the Rangers have been tight-lipped about goaltender Igor Shesterkin and defenseman Adam Fox, both of whom missed the Olympic games and the final matches before the break. Without Panarin's offensive prowess, the Rangers will need a strong defensive performance to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Meanwhile, the Kings are gearing up for their own playoff pursuit with Panarin now in their ranks. With Kevin Fiala sidelined, the question remains whether they will make additional moves to bolster their lineup.